Costa Mesa, nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, stands as a vibrant testament to the Southern California lifestyle, blending a suburban feel with the sophistication of a bustling city. Known for its beautiful parks and stunning homes, Costa Mesa also features exceptional shopping experiences.

Whether you're a resident or a newcomer seeking the best places to shop as you explore Costa Mesa real estate, this city offers a diverse array of fantastic options. Read on for a guide to the best places to shop in Costa Mesa, ensuring that your retail excursions are a resounding success.

Just six miles from Costa Mesa, you’ll find the renowned retail paradise of Newport Beach’s Fashion Island — a beacon of luxury shopping and dining. With a backdrop of palm trees and sunny skies, this incredible open-air shopping haven offers a curated selection of prestigious stores, ranging from high-end boutiques and international luxury brands to sought-after department stores. Don’t miss fashion-forward finds and head-turning styles at the Armani Collection, Tommy Bahama, Neiman Marcus, Johnny Was, Louis Vuitton, Bloomingdale’s, and many more. The meticulously landscaped piazzas and stunning fountains create an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and welcoming, inviting visitors to stroll, shop, and dine in an environment that epitomizes Southern California’s chic coastal lifestyle.

South Coast Plaza is a shining star in the crown jewel of Costa Mesa’s shopping scene. This expansive luxury shopping center is not just a mall but a global destination, attracting visitors from around the world with its high-end boutiques, renowned department stores, and a wide range of dining options. 

Featuring over 250 retailers, including international luxury brands and highly sought-after fashion houses like Gucci, Dior, Chanel, Burberry, and Louis Vuitton, South Coast Plaza offers an unparalleled shopping experience. Whether you’re searching for the latest in haute couture, exquisite jewelry, or upscale home decor, you’ll find it all under one roof. The center's beautifully designed spaces, complete with striking architecture and lush gardens, make shopping here a delight for the senses.

The LAB, standing for "Little American Business," provides a stark contrast to the typical shopping mall experience and has firmly established itself as the heartbeat of Costa Mesa's alternative shopping scene. Embracing a vibrant, eclectic vibe, The LAB is home to an array of independent retailers, artisan boutiques, and creative eateries. This shopping haven is perfect for those seeking unique, handcrafted items, vintage finds, and one-of-a-kind gifts. The LAB’s indoor-outdoor setting, adorned with reclaimed materials and inventive art installations, reflects its commitment to sustainability, creativity, and community, making it a favorite hangout spot for locals and visitors alike.

Just across from The LAB, The CAMP serves as Costa Mesa’s epicenter for eco-conscious shopping and dining. Catering to the health-minded and outdoor enthusiasts, The CAMP offers a curated selection of unique boutiques and specialty stores focused on sustainable living, wellness, and outdoor adventure gear. Here, shoppers can find everything from organic clothing and natural skincare products to specialized fitness equipment and local goods. The CAMP’s laid-back, eco-friendly atmosphere is complemented by its green design elements and outdoor courtyards, making it an ideal place to shop, eat, and relax in harmony with nature.

SOCO (South Coast Collection) and The OC Mix collectively present a vibrant destination for design enthusiasts and foodies. This innovative complex boasts an impressive collection of showrooms featuring modern furniture, home décor, and design services. At the heart of SOCO, The OC Mix houses an array of artisanal food vendors, gourmet eateries, and specialty retail shops, offering everything from craft coffee and artisanal cheeses to handcrafted jewelry, custom designs, and boutique clothing. SOCO and The OC Mix provide a dynamic shopping and dining experience where discovery and inspiration await around every corner.

The 17th Street Promenade offers a more intimate shopping experience characterized by its charming boutiques, local eateries, refreshing spas, and specialty stores. This bustling shopping strip is perfect for leisurely strolls, allowing shoppers to explore a variety of shops offering fashionable apparel, home accessories, unique gifts, and handmade goods. The promenade’s friendly neighborhood vibe is enhanced by its outdoor cafés and eateries, inviting visitors to take a break and soak in the local ambiance.

Metro Pointe at South Coast blends shopping with entertainment, offering a wide range of retailers and kiosks, the Regal Edwards Metro Pointe movie theater, and elegant dining options around a charming fountain. This open-air center with an Italian-inspired architectural design caters to a discerning clientele, with stores ranging from well-known fashion brands and jewelry shops to tech gadgets and home furnishings. The picturesque setting makes Metro Pointe an enjoyable destination for retail therapy and leisure.

Whether you're in pursuit of the latest fashion trends, unique artisanal finds, or a special gift for a loved one, Costa Mesa’s retail offerings never disappoint. If you’re intrigued by the Costa Mesa shopping scene and want to begin your journey in Costa Mesa real estate, team up with trusted Realtor® Jacqueline Macken today for expert guidance.